Basic Corrections Officer: Certification Practice

Which of the following is a common symptom of substance withdrawal?

1. Impaired judgment

2. Nausea with abdominal cramps

3. Intense euphoria

4. Hallucinations

The correct answer is: Nausea with abdominal cramps

Nausea with abdominal cramps is a common symptom of substance withdrawal because many substances, particularly depressants like alcohol and opioids, affect the gastrointestinal system. When an individual who is dependent on these substances suddenly reduces or stops their intake, their body reacts negatively, leading to withdrawal symptoms as it readjusts to functioning without the substance. This reaction can manifest physically, often resulting in nausea and abdominal distress as the body's systems attempt to normalize after the absence of the substance, which had previously altered their function. While impaired judgment, intense euphoria, and hallucinations can be associated with substance use and certain withdrawal conditions, they are not typically the primary or most common symptoms of withdrawal. Impaired judgment is often tied to ongoing substance use rather than withdrawal, intense euphoria generally occurs during substance use rather than withdrawal phases, and hallucinations can occur in severe cases of withdrawal (such as with certain substances) but are not a standard symptom across the board.